5 Days of Family Fun in Sun-Drenched San Diego!

Sun-soaked fun awaits in family-friendly San Diego.

19 July 2023

San Diego, located on the beautiful southern coast of California, is a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip. With its year-round mild weather, stunning beaches, and plethora of fun attractions, it offers something for everyone in the family. From exploring the world-renowned San Diego Zoo and Safari Park to enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Legoland and the interactive exhibits at the USS Midway Museum, this sun-soaked city guarantees an unforgettable vacation experience.

Travel plan

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Day 1

Welcome to Sunny San Diego!

  • Stay at the vibrant Hotel del Coronado, known for its beachfront charm and legendary history.
  • Start your day with a scrumptious breakfast at Snooze, an A.M. Eatery, where pancakes come in more flavors than Baskin Robbins has ice creams.
  • Channel your inner marine biologist at the Birch Aquarium. Meet sea creatures that are so mesmerizing, you'll start planning to build an aquarium at home!
  • Dive into California's history at Old Town San Diego, where you'll feel like you've traveled back in time. Don't forget to snap an obligatory selfie with cowboys and señoritas.
  • Stroll along the beach at Mission Beach and watch the locals ride gnarly waves or walk their dogs in sunglasses. It's the epitome of Southern California.
  • End your day with a delightful Mexican feast at the bustling Old Town Mexican Café. Their enchiladas will transport you straight to food heaven.
Day 2

Wild Adventures Await!

  • Embark on a thrilling safari adventure at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park. Get ready to be surrounded by majestic creatures and resist the urge to join a lion's pride.
  • Visit the USS Midway Museum, a floating city of history, and imagine yourself as Tom Cruise in "Top Gun". You'll want to salute every sailor you meet!
  • Enjoy a seafood extravaganza at Point Loma Seafoods. Their fish tacos will make your taste buds do the salsa and tango all at once.
  • Catch a sunset cruise on a Hornblower yacht. Sip a fancy cocktail as the sky turns into a breathtaking masterpiece and dolphins photobomb your selfies.
  • Wind down with a cozy bonfire at Mission Bay Park. Roast marshmallows, tell ghost stories, and sing campfire songs under the starry San Diego night.
Day 3

Balboa Park Bliss

  • Immerse yourself in art and culture at Balboa Park. Explore museums with fancy names like "Timken Museum of Art" or "San Diego Air & Space Museum". Fancy!
  • Take a break and indulge in local flavors at Panama 66, a hip restaurant that combines delicious food with artistic vibes. Don't forget to Instagram your organic kale salad.
  • Play a round of frisbee golf at Morley Field Disc Golf Course. It's like golf, but with frisbees and fewer embarrassing moments.
  • Treat your inner child (or your actual children) to a joyride on the Balboa Park Carousel. Make sure to choose the fanciest, most flamboyant horse.
  • Get lost in the beauty of the Japanese Friendship Garden. Feel zen, find your inner Buddha, and take enough selfies to make even Buddha blush.
  • Devour mouthwatering BBQ ribs at Phil's BBQ. Their secret sauce is so good, you'll want to bottle it up and take it home as a souvenir.
Day 4

Beach Vibes and Tacos Galore!

  • Spend the day at La Jolla Cove, where sunbathing seals and sea lions put on a show that's better than Broadway. Don't forget sunscreen, seals can be quite persuasive.
  • Join a guided tour at Birch Aquarium and meet our underwater pals up close. Nemo and Dory have already prepared autographs, so bring your pen!
  • Enjoy a scenic hike at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve. With breathtaking views of cliffs and pounding waves, it's like walking through a postcard.
  • Rejuvenate at the quirky and charming Lucha Libre Taco Shop. Indulge in their famous surf 'n turf burritos and feel like a luchador champion.
  • Grab your boogie board and ride the waves at Pacific Beach. Impress the locals with your sick surf moves (or fall face-first into the water, either way, it's fun!).
  • End your day with a sweet treat from Hammond's Gourmet Ice Cream. Take a plunge into the world of unique flavors like "Chocolate Rosemary" or "Cornbread Sundae".
Day 5

Farewell, San Diego!

  • Take a relaxing gondola ride through the enchanting canals of Coronado. Sing your heart out like you're in Venice and watch the waves giggle at your charm.
  • Explore the surreal beauty of Cabrillo National Monument. Stand at the edge of the continent, wave at passing ships, and contemplate the mysteries of life.
  • Enjoy a picnic brunch at Kate Sessions Park, surrounded by stunning views of San Diego. Don't forget to pack a frisbee or a soccer ball for some post-brunch fun.
  • Take a stroll along the historic Gaslamp Quarter, where Victorian architecture mingles with modern trends. There's no better place to people-watch and feel like a time traveler.
  • Indulge in a delightful farm-to-table dinner at Lionfish Modern Coastal Cuisine. Their creative menu will make you wonder if you've accidentally stumbled into a Michelin-starred restaurant.
  • Bid farewell to San Diego with a sunset walk on the Imperial Beach Pier. Let the colors of the sky imprint in your memory as you make plans to return to this sunny paradise.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to San Diego by plane is to fly into San Diego International Airport (SAN) which is located just 3 miles from downtown San Diego. There are direct flights available from many major cities in the United States and abroad.

Car

Driving to San Diego is a great option if you are coming from nearby cities or states. The best route to take would depend on your starting location, but popular options include taking the I-5 if you are coming from Los Angeles or Orange County or the I-8 if you are coming from Arizona.

Train

Unfortunately, there are no trains that go directly to San Diego. However, you can take Amtrak's Pacific Surfliner to the Santa Fe Depot in downtown San Diego from other major cities in Southern California.

Boat

It is not possible to get to San Diego by boat as there are no passenger ferry services that operate to San Diego. However, there are many marinas in San Diego that offer boat storage and rental services if you are interested in exploring the city's beautiful coastline by sea.

Bus

The best way to get to San Diego by bus is to take Greyhound or Megabus which both have multiple daily routes to San Diego from various cities throughout the United States.

More travel plans

Sun, Sea, and Culture: 4 Days in San Diego!

A trip to San Diego on a limited budget can still be full of fun and adventure. Visitors can explore the beaches, visit Balboa Park, and take a stroll through the historic Gaslamp Quarter. With affordable accommodations and delicious food options, San Diego can be a budget-friendly destination for all.

A Romantic Long Weekend in San Diego

A romantic trip to San Diego, United States promises a delightful blend of coastal charm and urban energy. With golden beaches, iconic attractions like Balboa Park and the Gaslamp Quarter, and a plethora of restaurants, cafes, and bars, you'll have plenty of opportunities for strolling hand in hand, enjoying candlelit dinners, and soaking up the laid-back vibe of California. From whale-watching tours to sunset sails, there are also plenty of activities to add some adventure and excitement to your trip.

Budget-Friendly Fun: San Diego in Two Days

A trip to San Diego on a limited budget can still be a great experience. You can explore the beautiful beaches, visit popular attractions like Balboa Park and the San Diego Zoo, and enjoy delicious and affordable food options. Look for deals on accommodations and transportation to make the most of your visit without breaking the bank.

Budget-friendly Fun: 5 Days in San Diego

Exploring San Diego on a limited budget is both possible and enjoyable. A visit to the famous Balboa Park with its museums, gardens, and cultural attractions is a must-see and many of the attractions there offer free admission. Adventurous visitors can also take advantage of the outdoor activities like hiking and biking in nearby Mission Trails Regional Park or relax at the beaches near La Jolla.